
F-Stop Collaborate and Listen
This photography podcast takes you well beyond camera gear each week with weekly interviews and panel discussions with professional photographers, industry insiders, enthusiasts, and hobbyists alike. Our candid but laid-back conversations deeply explore the craft of photography and psychological drivers relating to creativity, motivation, inspiration, and workflow. We also discuss social media, photography business practices, marketing, sales, and hot topics impacting photographers from all genres, with a particular focus on landscape, nature, and wildlife photography. The show is hosted by Matt Payne, a professional full-time nature photographer and the co-founder of the internationally renowned photography competition, the Natural Landscape Photography Awards. Matt is also a mountaineer, climbing the highest 100 mountains in Colorado. Matt leverages skills he gained in pursuit of his Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology to dig deeply into the hearts and minds of his passionate guests, revealing secrets and inspiration in every episode.
Latest episodes

Jul 15, 2024 • 1h 9min
378: John Putnam - Balancing Family and Photography in Acadia National Park
In the latest episode, renowned photographer John Putnam joins host Matt Payne to share insightful discussions on blending family life with a demanding photography career. Throughout their conversation, both photographers unearth the significant impact of integrating personal experiences with professional endeavors and how this synthesis can redefine the essence of success in the field of photography.
Resources Mentioned on the Podcast:
My conversation with David DuChemin.
Arrival Fallacy.
Join us on Nature Photographer's Network, and use the code FSTOP10 for a 10% discount!
Support the podcast on Patreon, and catch our bonus conversation where we discuss artist vs. photographer.
John Putnam’s Private Workshops: Listeners can use the code "justfstopit" for a 10% discount on all private workshops held in Acadia National Park.
Photographers Mentioned on the Podcast:
Greta Rybiss
Chris Bennett
Mac Stone - his photo, "Midnight Oil."

Jul 8, 2024 • 1h 5min
377: Colleen Miniuk - Embracing Challenges and Finding Fulfillment
Welcome to this inspiring episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," where we embark on a profound journey with Colleen Miniuk, a renowned nature photographer and author. Today, Colleen shares her transformative experiences along the Colorado River, which reshaped her outlook on life, success, and fulfillment. She delves into her personal story of self-discovery, detailing how she overcame the challenges of perfectionism and control, and how embracing authenticity and rejecting societal expectations led her to true happiness. Colleen also discusses her shift from commercial photography to a passionate focus on nature and landscapes, specifically water elements and the majestic Colorado River.
Resources mentioned:
1. Colleen's Book: "So Said The River." Discount codes:
4FSTOP2024 to get 15% off the autographed hardcover
E4FSTOP2024 to get 15% off the eBook (PDF)
2. Guy Tal.
3. Support the podcast.
Photographers Recommended for the Podcast:
Dave Showalter.
Dawn Kish.
Amy Martin.

Jul 1, 2024 • 1h 25min
376: Suzanne Revy - Mastering Triptychs and the Art Behind Artist Statements
In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne converses with guest Suzanne Revy on her intimate relationship with her local landscape, particularly the rivers that shape her photographic rhythm. Revy delves into the evolution of her work, from experimenting with triptychs to focusing on immediate surroundings and the challenges of capturing images that resonate individually and collectively. The discussion traverses topics such as the transformative impact of revisiting places, the importance of authenticity in art, and the intersection of photography with self-discovery and environmental stewardship. Additionally, Revy shares insights on writing artist statements, the art of critique, and her ongoing projects, including an upcoming solo show. She also tackles the influence of AI on photography, her past as a photo editor, and teaching endeavors, offering a robust look at the multifaceted nature of a photographic career.
Resources Mentioned on the Podcast
Support the podcast
Saul Leiter - Early Color
Emily Dickinson - A Murmur in the Trees
Mirrors and Windows book (affiliate link)
Castmagic app
Nature Photographer's Network (use the code FSTOP10 for 10% off)
Eric Bennett's Critique Groups
Muench Workshops
Photographers Mentioned on the Podcast
Frank Armstrong
Erin Carey
Philip Heying

Jun 24, 2024 • 1h 9min
375: Matt Beaty - Printing the Most Expensive Photos on Earth
In this episode, host Matt Payne talks with guest Matt Beaty, owner of Hidden Light in Flagstaff, Arizona, who shares his passion for printing. We discuss the importance of physical prints in understanding one's own artistic style, the effects of the viewing environment on printed works, and so much more. Matt Beaty also provides practical tips for preparing files for printing and emphasizes the significance of the printing process for the longevity and legacy of photographic work.
Watch this episode on YouTube.
Links Discussed on the Podcast:
Learn How to Support the Podcast
Hidden Light, LLC
Hidden Light Shoot to Print Workshops
David DuChemin podcast episode
David Brookover podcast episode
Photographers Mentioned on the Podcast:
Tyler Shields
Austin Leathers

Jun 17, 2024 • 1h 13min
374: Lee Nordbye - Beyond the Peaks – An Intimate Look at the Canadian Rockies
In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne talks to guest Lee Nordbye about his deep connection with the Canadian Rockies, transitioning from a career in accounting to professional photography, and his unique approach to capturing the Canadian Rockies. Nordbye reveals how photography has been therapeutic for managing his mental health, details his shift in gear and perspective, and lays out how he's benefitted from mentorship and why he now offers free mentorship programs. They discuss the potentially dangerous but exhilarating experience of wild ice skating and photographing this winter activity. Nordbye also talks about his "Below the Peak" exhibition, emphasizing the need for photographers to find their own voice, and he shares personal insights on black and white photography as well as the challenges and joys that come with outdoor adventures and storytelling through imagery.
Watch this podcast episode on YouTube.
Resources Mentioned:
Support the Podcast on Patreon or via PayPal
Exposure Fest
Lee's Virtual coaching and teaching
Lee on Instagram
Namibia Workshop
Photographers Mentioned:
Paul Zizka
Dave Brosha
Stasia Schmidt
Connect with the Podcast:
YouTube
Instagram
Facebook

Jun 10, 2024 • 1h 26min
373: Caroline Van Hemert - Mixing Words with Photos in a Compelling Way
In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," Caroline Van Hemert and Matt Payne dive into the nuances of blending storytelling with photography, as Caroline shares her riveting personal experiences from the Arctic and discusses the environmental changes she's witnessed. Drawing from her background as a wildlife biologist and adventurer, she reflects on her family's sailboat explorations and the challenges of environmental storytelling aimed at inspiring action. Caroline and Matt exchange thoughts on overcoming negative media narratives about wildlife, the importance of authenticity in storytelling, and the role of various media in capturing the essence of the outdoors. They also discuss the practical aspects of self-publishing, book marketing, and the balance between personal narratives and scientific research in engaging an audience.
Resources Mentioned on the Podcast:
Caroline's article in the New York Times
Caroline's articles in Outside Magazine
American Wolf Book (affiliate link)
The Sun is a Compass book (affiliate link)
Ethan Beute's article & podcast
Watch the podcast on YouTube
Support the podcast on Patreon and engage in conversation about the episode
Photographers Recommended on the Podcast:
Luc Mehl
Joe Stock
Nathaniel Wilder

Jun 3, 2024 • 1h 3min
372: Brittany Colt - Evocative Photography from Yosemite and the Eastern Sierra
In this episode, photographer Brittany Colt delves into her distinctive approach to photography, discussing the influence of graphic design and the use of color and negative space to shape mood and draw viewer engagement. Exploring intimate landscapes through her unique vision, influenced by being born blind in one eye, Colt emphasizes the significance of emotional connection in photography and the transformative impact of following light in iconic locations like Yosemite and the Eastern Sierra. With a focus on female empowerment and self-love through her Flying Dress Experience and nude photo series, she addresses her professional evolution from weddings to landscape photography, her graphic design insights into composition, and the value of emotional storytelling in her art. Host Matt Payne and Brittany reflect on the importance of adapting teaching to individual learning styles, speak to the challenges and balance of authenticity in marketing their services, and advocate for personal creativity and passion in the craft of photography.
Resources Mentioned on the Podcast:
Support the podcast on Patreon
Matt's OnLandscape Article about Brittany's Photography
Nature's Daughters Project
Flying Dress Experience
Watch the podcast on YouTube
Photographer's Mentioned on the Podcast:
Shawn Reeder
Samantha Lindberg
Jill Sanders

May 27, 2024 • 58min
371: Alan Ross - The Legacy of Ansel Adams
In this enriching episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," we delve into the remarkable legacy of Ansel Adams through the eyes of his former assistant and esteemed photographer, Alan Ross. Ross shares captivating anecdotes and insights from his time with Adams, reflecting on Ansel's people skills, his comfort with technology, and his humble approach to photography that embraced imperfections and learning from mistakes. Ross discusses his own varied career, from textbook photography to continuing Adams' tradition of special edition prints, and his personal philosophy of seeing photography as an expressive language that goes beyond mere documentation. Listeners are treated to a deep dive into photographic artistry, learning to appreciate the emotional conveyance in images, the importance of self-discovery, and the impactful advice to slow down and engage meaningfully with one's subject. Guest recommendations and a nod to the broader community of photographers round out an episode that's as much a tribute to an icon as it is a masterclass in the craft of photography.
Resources Mentioned:
Mary Street Alinder's Ansel Adams Biography
Ansel Adams Yosemite Special Edition Prints
Support the podcast on Patreon and engage in conversation on today's episode
Photographer's Mentioned:
David Kennerly
Michael Kirchoff
Dan Burkholder

May 20, 2024 • 1h 30min
370: Tony Hewitt - Judging Bias in Photography Competitions
In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne sits down with the celebrated photographer and 2023 International Landscape Photographer of the Year, Tony Hewitt. They delve into a deep discussion about Tony's diverse experience, touching on the nuances of fine art and landscape photography, the intention behind each shot, and the emotional experience involved in photography competitions. Tony asserts the importance of narrative and the photographer's voice in creating impactful imagery, sharing insights from his multifaceted career, his approach to photography as a storytelling medium, and his advice on developing a personal style. They also address the sensitive topics of judging integrity and favoritism in competitions, the role of standard setting in photographic art, and the significance of critiques and self-evaluation in a photographer's growth. The episode is not only overflowing with actionable advice for photographers of all levels but also offers a window into Tony's philosophy and his mastermind groups, aimed at guiding individuals on their unique creative journeys.
Resources Discussed:
Support the podcast on Patreon
Learn more about the Natural Landscape Photography Awards
Tony's Master Mind Group
Stay in touch with the Podcast on Instagram
Watch the podcast on YouTube
Photographers Mentioned:
Chris Dark
Tanya Niwa
Doug Porter
Jordan Cantelo

May 13, 2024 • 1h 19min
369: Beth Buelow - Beyond the Label: Exploring Creative Identity in Photography
In this week's episode featuring Beth Buelow, the conversation explores the profound impact of labels on a photographer's creative journey. They discuss the dual nature of labels—how they can serve as useful cognitive shortcuts and create a sense of identity and confidence for photographers, but can also limit creative exploration and growth. By sharing personal experiences and examining the tension between embracing and resisting labels in the face of evolving technology like AI, Matt Payne and Beth Buelow encourage photographers to embrace challenges, adaptability, and failure as tools for creativity. The episode culminates with the introduction of Beth's platform, Pixels, which aims to inspire photographers through creativity cross-training, balancing the art and heart of photography while fostering a community for continual growth and evolving artistic identity.
Resources Mentioned on the Podcast:
Sail the Chilean Fjords with me or see my other workshops
TJ Thorne
Landscape Photographer's Worldwide Discord Server
Out of Chicago LIVE conferences
David Whyte Poetry
The Introvert Entrepreneur
Beth's "Pixels: The Heart and Art of Photography" Channel
Support the podcast on Patreon, or join in on the conversation about this episode
Photographers Recommended by Beth:
Stephanie Johnson
Erik Lee